Visual Realiahttp://www.visualrealia.com
Visual Realia is the online home for Andy Smith, including Visual Realia photography and the VR Photowalks media.enMinimum Wage Increase: Right for Conservatives?http://www.visualrealia.com/content/minimum-wage-increase-right-conservatives
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"> <p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="800" width="497" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201503/DollarUrban.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><br />There are certain political issues that logically break down between the major parties. But the minimum wage? I never understood why conservatives would not be supportive. But apparently the York-Adams County House Republican Delegation isn’t. In a statement following Governor Wolf’s budget proposal, they note, “Saddling them (small businesses) with burdensome tax increases and increasing the minimum wage does not support the job creators that provide employment to middle-class Pennsylvanians.”</p>
<p>Perhaps we should ask small business owners.</p>
<p>They’ve been asked.</p>
<p>- A (national) survey “conducted by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research for Small Business Majority, found that small business owners support a hike to $10.10 per hour by a 57-43 margin. Eighty-two percent of those surveyed say they already pay their employees more than the minimum and 52 percent agreed that if the wage floor is raised, ‘people will have a higher percentage of their income to spend on goods and services’ and small businesses ‘will be able to grow and hire new workers.’”</p>
<p>(Source: <a href="http://billmoyers.com/2014/03/07/all-of-the-arguments-against-raising-the-minimum-wage-have-fallen-apart/">http://billmoyers.com/2014/03/07/all-of-the-arguments-against-raising-th...</a>)</p>
<p>Well, as Republican party politicians, shouldn’t they follow the wishes of fellow Republicans?</p>
<p>A Pew Research Center/USA TODAY poll showed that 53% of Republicans support raising the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour. (65% of non-Tea Party Republicans, and 73% of all polled agree.)</p>
<p>(Source: <a href="http://www.people-press.org/2014/01/23/most-see-inequality-growing-but-partisans-differ-over-solutions/">http://www.people-press.org/2014/01/23/most-see-inequality-growing-but-p...</a>)</p>
<p>But a minimum wage hike would kill jobs! Not according to the Bloomberg article “Highest Minimum-Wage State Washington Beats U.S. in Job Creation” which documents a citizen-led initiative to lift the minimum wage in 1998 that led to job growth above the national rate for the 15 years to this point. We often hear how devastating a hike would be for the food service community. But in Washington, payrolls in the industry have risen by 21%.</p>
<p>(Source: <a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-03-05/washington-shows-highest-minimum-wage-state-beats-u-s-with-jobs">http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-03-05/washington-shows-highe...</a>)</p>
<p>As stated by conservative Ron Unz, “The bottom line is that the American government right now spends $250 billion a year on social welfare programs to benefit the working poor. What we have right now is the classic case of businesses privatizing the benefits of the workers, but socializing the costs — shifting the burden to taxpayers and the rest of society. And I think businesses should stand on their own two feet and pay their own workers, rather than force the taxpayers to make up the difference.”</p>
<p>(Source: <a href="http://hereandnow.wbur.org/2014/03/17/unz-minimum-wage">http://hereandnow.wbur.org/2014/03/17/unz-minimum-wage</a>)</p>
<p>Back to our local leaders’ statement, noting that businesses are “job creators.” That’s half of the story. A sale at the cash register involves two parties: the seller and the buyer. Without money in the consumer’s pocket: no sale.</p>
<p>To conclude, this from the executive summary of the small business survey noted above:</p>
<p>“A sweeping 82% already pay all of their employees more than the federal minimum wage, with Only 18% paying one or more of their workers minimum wage.<br />More than half of small business owners (52%) agree that increasing the minimum wage would not only help the economy, it would make low-income consumers more likely to spend money, driving up demand for small businesses’ goods and services. In addition, 54% of respondents believe that increasing the minimum wage would help decrease pressure on taxpayer-financed government assistance that’s needed to make up for low wages, as it would help people afford basic necessities that might otherwise be out of their financial reach.”</p>
<p>(Source: <a href="http://www.smallbusinessmajority.org/small-business-research/downloads/030614-National-Minimum-Wage-Poll.pdf">http://www.smallbusinessmajority.org/small-business-research/downloads/0...</a>)</p>
<p>Do we need to take care of our small businesses? Absolutely. And helping consumers do so can be a conservative ideal.</p>
<p>And the fact that it’s the right thing to do doesn’t hurt the argument.</p>
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<p>Further reading:<br /><a href="http://www.theamericanconservative.com/articles/raising-american-wages-by-raising-american-wages/">http://www.theamericanconservative.com/articles/raising-american-wages-b...</a><br /><a href="http://www.theamericanconservative.com/millman/five-arguments-why-a-hike-in-the-minimum-wage-is-better-than-a-hike-in-the-eitc/">http://www.theamericanconservative.com/millman/five-arguments-why-a-hike...</a></p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/verbal" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">verbal</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/essay" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">essay</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/texture" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">texture</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/opinion" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">opinion</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/politics" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">politics</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/minimum-wage" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">minimum wage</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/policy" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">policy</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/financial" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">financial</a></div></div></div>Thu, 05 Mar 2015 02:23:29 +0000visualrealia881 at http://www.visualrealia.comhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/minimum-wage-increase-right-conservatives#comments"Inside Hanover" Event - May 2, 2015http://www.visualrealia.com/content/inside-hanover-event-may-2-2015
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"> <p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="239" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://visualrealia.drupalgardens.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201501/FourDoorPanel700web.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p>"Inside Hanover" - Saturday, May 2nd, 10 AM - 1 PM</p>
<p>Put the date on your calendar and plan on exploring downtown Hanover as spring starts inviting us outside for a walk. It's been two years since the photowalks were put on hiatus, but they're coming back for one camera-optional event.</p>
<p>If you're in the area, walk with us and check out the architecture and inside of businesses, churches, landmarks, etc. around town, no camera required. Want to try a photowalk? That's an option, too; come prepared with your cell phone camera, a DSLR or anything between.</p>
<p>More info to come, but if you'd like to make sure you're not missed as a property owner or a walking participant, <a href="mailto:ostman4200@comcast.net?subject=Inside%20Hanover%20-%20blog%20response">email me</a> and I'll keep you in the loop.</p> </div></div></div>Mon, 05 Jan 2015 01:47:23 +0000visualrealia876 at http://www.visualrealia.comhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/inside-hanover-event-may-2-2015#commentsMemetic Misbehaviorhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/memetic-misbehavior
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"> <p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://visualrealia.drupalgardens.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201412/biasedpostmeme700web.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/social-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">social media</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/humor" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">humor</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/internet" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">internet</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/sarcasm" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">sarcasm</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/meme" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">meme</a></div></div></div>Mon, 29 Dec 2014 02:47:37 +0000visualrealia871 at http://www.visualrealia.comhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/memetic-misbehavior#commentsRight and Wronghttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/right-and-wrong
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"> <p>The controversies regarding the perceptions of an unequal justice system, the deaths of young, minority men and the safety and difficulty of the job and expectations for our police officers continue, as I’m sure they will. My interest the past few weeks has been less on the specifics of the recent news items and more on our reactions, at least as reflected in media, both traditional and in various online social media.</p>
<p>As is my usual complaint, we tend to oversimplify issues and insist that there are “right” and “wrong” sides. As is often the case, meaningful discussion isn’t going to fit on a small photo to be plastered on Facebook walls, with words that at best are out of context, or at worst meaningfully distorting facts.</p>
<p>There is one possibility that appears in text and in front of us all too rarely: life is complex; police officers have a job that requires life and death decisions, both for the public and officers themselves. And while this is true, there are facts about an unequal justice system that aren’t wished away because we respect and admire those officers. It is entirely possible that both sides hold views that we need to consider carefully, with issues raised that require work on our part.</p>
<p>Police officers and other law enforcement officials hold a position where outsiders view their actions with the benefit of time. Time to evaluate all available information and assess best actions. Officers often lack this foresight to no fault of their own. Because of the nature of their work, the consequences of their decisions are such that few of us ever have to face.</p>
<p>We know that just like physicians, retailers, business owners, tellers, teachers, etc., an overwhelming percentage of the police officers go to work each and every day intending to serve all, and serve equally. Statements and declarations otherwise devalue their work and all of us in the community.</p>
<p>Inherently knowing that the officers deserve our respect cannot, however, erase truths that are verified in research. Our justice system is not always just; our institutions and those that work for them seek to be free from bias, but are not. These institutions are imperfect because we are.</p>
<p>Too often we look for excuses to disregard claims of inequality. We fall upon stereotypes and assume that the victims of the inequality bring the injustices to themselves. But a close look at information available doesn’t allow us to do so… unless we are unwilling to be truthful to ourselves.</p>
<p>• African-Americans comprise 13% of our country’s population and 14% of monthly drug users, but of those arrested for drug-related crimes, 37% are African-American.</p>
<p>• A 2011 report by the U.S. Department of Justice noted that in New York City, 85% of African-Americans and Latinos “pulled over” were frisked, while that was the case only 8% of the time for white suspects.</p>
<p>• Studies show that African-Americans are detained at a higher level while awaiting felony trials, receive longer sentences from the federal system for equivalent crimes, and are more likely to receive mandatory minimum sentences and prison terms than white defendants.</p>
<p>We often assume that prejudice is blatant and easily spotted, but our biases are often much more subtle and hidden from even our own knowledge. Unconscious attitudes can influence how we react to decisions, and certainly can influence how situations on a street or in a court can play out. (Google “implicit associations” for more on this topic.)</p>
<p>Unlike the views that left and right leaning media and blogs may tell us, it can be a logical viewpoint to hold that our law enforcement officers face intense challenges that we would find equally impossible to handle with perfection, and the level of inequality of justice at all levels should not be viewed as acceptable. Pretending that one side holds the “truth” helps no one.</p>
<p> </p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/verbal" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">verbal</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/news" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">news</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/controversy" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">controversy</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/inequality" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">inequality</a></div></div></div>Mon, 29 Dec 2014 02:40:30 +0000visualrealia866 at http://www.visualrealia.comhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/right-and-wrong#commentsVisual Realia on Instagramhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/visual-realia-instagram
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"> <p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="520" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://visualrealia.drupalgardens.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201410/Instagram.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p>If you're an Instagram fan, feel free to follow Visual Realia as user <a href="http://instagram.com/visualrealia">visualrealia</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://instagram.com/visualrealia">http://instagram.com/visualrealia</a></p>
<p>Many of the posts are food related, often being intermediate steps in making new or interesting recipes.</p>
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<p>Artist Copyright - All works of art within this web site are protected under U.S. copyright laws and international conventions. No portion of the artist's works or statements may be used, downloaded, reproduced using any means, copied, or transferred electronically, without prior written permission from the artist.</p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/instagram" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">instagram</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/social-media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">social media</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/photography" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">photography</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/food" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">food</a></div></div></div>Sat, 18 Oct 2014 23:41:29 +0000visualrealia861 at http://www.visualrealia.comhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/visual-realia-instagram#commentsACAC Artist Spotlighthttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/acac-artist-spotlight
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"> <p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="606" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://visualrealia.drupalgardens.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201410/FluidGalleryPrintSample700web.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p>Thanks to Lisa from <a href="http://www.cadigancreative.com/">Cadigan Creative</a> for writing the very nice post on some of my photography work on the <a href="http://adamsarts.org/">Adams County Arts Council</a> blog. The piece particulalry focuses on my macro liquid and ice works. <a href="http://adamsarts.org/artist-spotlight-andrew-smith/">Click here</a> to read the post.</p>
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<p>Artist Copyright - All works of art within this web site are protected under U.S. copyright laws and international conventions. No portion of the artist's works or statements may be used, downloaded, reproduced using any means, copied, or transferred electronically, without prior written permission from the artist.</p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/art" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">art</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/photography" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">photography</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/adams-county-arts-council" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Adams County Arts Council</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/media" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">media</a></div></div></div>Mon, 13 Oct 2014 20:03:23 +0000visualrealia856 at http://www.visualrealia.comhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/acac-artist-spotlight#commentsAdams County's Rettland Farmhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/adams-countys-rettland-farm
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"> <p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" style="width: 700px; height: 525px;" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086694-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086700-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="497" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086680-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><a href="http://rettlandfarm.com/">Rettland Farm</a>, made up of several area lots of land owned and leased by the Ramsburg family, is the type of farm/business that people that like to support. Small businesses want to succeed, and their owners appreciate being able to see customers enjoying the end product of the family’s work.<br /><br />The Ramsburgs and their staff focus on chickens, pigs and sheep in the livestock area, and are also expanding into various grains that are now allowing them to offer items such as warthog flour, milled just down the road right below the Maryland/Pennsylvania border at <a href="http://www.unionmills.org/">Union Mills</a>, shown immediately below. This water-powered process stone-grinds the grain, providing a suitable final step in bringing us flour that is cared for closely throughout the process.</p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/P7060001tri-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div><br /><br />I visited one of the most recent areas of land used by Beau Ramsburg and family, located right along Route 97, connecting historic Gettysburg to Westminster (Maryland) and the Baltimore area. In addition to being the home of the larder, where individuals in the community can come on Saturday afternoons to purchase their products, this Baltimore Pike farm is where you’ll find many of the chickens and pigs.</p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="469" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086696-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="468" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086672-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p>Rettland Farm is currently using Cornish-Rock chickens; we often think of these as our broiler chickens. After about two weeks in the warmth of a brooder house on land near the Ramsburg home, the chickens are brought to the Baltimore Pike location, where they are allowed to move freely in and out of the shelters, foraging on the barley, oats, clover, rye and other grasses planted for their sake.<br /><br />These chickens live together in their flock until approximately 7-9 weeks of age, before being processed for our use by the farm staff, just down the road at their original farm. Every step is done in a way to minimize stress, allowing for the best flavor, as well as providing ethical treatment for the animals throughout their lives.<br /><br />Beau feels, as many do, that the ability of the animals to move and roam freely outside also leads to a product that is of the highest quality. This belief is backed up by numerous local restaurants who are purchasing Rettland Farm meats.<br /><br />In order to maintain the best quality of the land for long term use, and ultimately to provide the best foraging for the chickens, the shelters and fencing are moved throughout the season.</p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086687-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="481" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086674-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="642" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086693-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div><br /><br />One can’t help but notice one creature of a different shape living amongst the chickens: Ween, a laid back Pyrenees guard dog (one of several the family has) that befriends and protects the flock. Beau noted that the young chickens soon learn that she is their protector, and they move toward shelter at her bark or even cuddle nearby Ween when resting.</p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="528" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086688-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="484" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086695-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="488" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086675-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div><br /><br />Further from the highway is the area where the Berkshire/Tamworth pigs live and forage for about ten months, once again eating the vegetation planted for them, as well as supplements of sorghum, barley and soybeans. As with all of the Rettland Farm products, the Ramsburgs follow an antibiotic-free and non-GMO philosophy for their animals.<br /><br />As with the chickens, the foraging area is moved on occasion, in this case in a rotating “wedge” though the field. There is also a separate area for the pigs that are farrowing, with an A-frame shelter for each pregnant sow.</p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="496" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086710-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086719-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086702-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086707-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086713-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div><br /><br />Beau is part of a farming family, having grown up on his father’s dairy farm, once again just down the road. When we buy food locally, we’re supporting families and our communities directly, and continuing the prosperity for many individuals tied to the agricultural economy.<br /><br />In addition to his direct experiences on his family farm as a youth, Beau graduated from Penn State with a Dairy and Animal Science major. His farm’s efforts to bring us the best possible product has been rewarded with some of our best area restaurants buying and serving his products, including the historic <a href="http://www.innatherrridge.com/">Inn at Herr Ridge</a>, the newly opened and upcoming York favorite, <a href="http://www.tutonis.com/">Tutonis</a>, Baltimore’s famed spots, <a href="http://www.woodberrykitchen.com/">Woodberry Kitchen</a>, <a href="http://fleetstreetkitchen.com/">Fleet Street Kitchen</a>, and <a href="http://bottega1729.com/menu/">Bottega</a>, Elizabethtown’s <a href="http://www.roosterstreetbutcher.com/">Rooster Street Provisions</a>, the restaurants at <a href="http://www.thehotelhershey.com/dining/">Hotel Hershey</a>, and Harrisburg’s <a href="http://mounthilltavern.com/">Mount Hill Tavern</a>.<br /><br />In addition to supporting these great places with our dinners out, feel free to stop by the larder (for your own dinner table) on Saturday afternoons at <a href="http://mapq.st/1ttgdis">2776 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg PA</a>. Follow the farm’s <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rettlandfarm">Facebook page here</a>, or visit <a href="http://www.rettlandfarm.blogspot.com/">the blog</a>.</p>
<hr />
<p><em>Thanks to Beau Ramsburg and family for allowing me to spend some time on their wonderful farm. Remember to support local businesses and farms.</em></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="581" style="width: 525px; height: 581px;" width="525" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086705-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="700" style="width: 525px; height: 700px;" width="525" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086684-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="707" style="width: 525px; height: 707px;" width="525" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086679-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="700" style="width: 525px; height: 700px;" width="525" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086683-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086716tri-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086720-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086721tri-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="560" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201407/_7086692-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<hr />
<p>Artist Copyright - All works of art within this web site are protected under U.S. copyright laws and international conventions. No portion of the artist's works or statements may be used, downloaded, reproduced using any means, copied, or transferred electronically, without prior written permission from the artist.</p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/verbal" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">verbal</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/photography" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">photography</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/food" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">food</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/rural" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">rural</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/farm" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">farm</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/rettland-farm" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Rettland Farm</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/gettysburg" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Gettysburg</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/pennsylvania" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Pennsylvania</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/adams-county" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Adams County</a></div></div></div>Thu, 10 Jul 2014 22:18:41 +0000visualrealia841 at http://www.visualrealia.comhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/adams-countys-rettland-farm#commentsThe Cost of Pennsylvania Public Collegeshttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/cost-pennsylvania-public-colleges
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"> <p>An online <a href="http://fox43.com/2014/07/02/the-top-34-most-expensive-public-colleges-half-are-in-pa/#idc-container">news article</a> posted by a local television news department regarding the most expensive public colleges caught my attention; half of the list was comprised of colleges in my home state of Pennsylvania. An online Facebook conversation with some friends pointed out that the list was problematic; many of the Pennsylvania institutions listed were all satellite branches of Penn State, and thus would obviously all be at the same approximate price point.<br /><br />Should those campuses be looked at as one entity, or individual colleges? There were various arguments, but it was clearly not the best way to compare the costs of Pennsylvania public colleges to those in other states.<br /><br />I did some searching and found some clearer comparisons of Pennsylvania to other states in terms of high education support. It’s been a rough few years for all colleges throughout the United States, and Pennsylvania has seen a 29.9% cut in state spending per student from 2008 to 2013, adjusted for inflation. (Center on Budget and Policy Priorities) This has a resulted in a 14.5% increase in tuition rates (at public, four-year colleges) during those same years. As “The Atlantic” notes, “The states that slashed the most didn't necessarily hike the most. Some university systems chose to cope with leaner funding through cost savings -- perhaps at the expense of educational quality -- by thinning their number of faculty or combining programs.”<br /><br />Included below are some comparisons in data regarding Pennsylvania public higher education institutions, as reported by the (SHEEO) State Higher Education Executive Officers.<br /><br />• In fiscal year 2013, almost 70% of the total educational revenue for Pennsylvania higher education was from “net tuition.” This is the seventh highest, and compares to a national average of 47.5%.<br /><br />• Here’s one… Pennsylvania provides (fiscal 2013) $2,147 less per student (full-time equivalent) in educational appropriations than the national average. This is the fifth lowest amount per student. Lower are Oregon, Colorado, Vermont and New Hampshire, while Wyoming provides $10,369 more per student than the national average.<br /><br />• Nationally, there has been a 10% increase in enrollment figures in the five years from 2008-2013. Pennsylvania has seen a 6.2% increase. In adjusted 2013 dollars, there was a 23% decrease in educational appropriations per student nationally, while Pennsylvania decreased appropriations by 30.8%. (Slightly different than the earlier statistic from a different source, but off by less than one percent.)<br /><br />• Pennsylvania’s “effective tax rate” is 8.5%, slightly higher than the national average of 8.1%.<br /><br />• How about the average contribution by our citizens? In fiscal year 2012, “higher education support” per capita was $259 nationally, while in Pennsylvania it was $149, or an index of .58 compared to the national average. What if we take wealth into consideration? Contributions per $1,000 of personal income was $3.31 in Pennsylvania, while nationally the contribution was $5.93. (Index of .56)<br /><br />• How does this play out? In fiscal year 2013, Pennsylvania provides $3,959 in educational appropriations per full-time student. Nationally, the dollar figure is $6,020.<br /><br /><br />Resources:<br /><a href="http://www.sheeo.org/sites/default/files/publications/SHEF13-Tables%26Figures-forweb.pdf">http://www.sheeo.org/sites/default/files/publications/SHEF13-Tables%26Fi...</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.sheeo.org/sites/default/files/publications/SHEF_FY13_04292014.pdf">http://www.sheeo.org/sites/default/files/publications/SHEF_FY13_04292014...</a><br /><br /><br /> </p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/verbal" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">verbal</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/education" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">education</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/college" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">college</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/higher-education" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">higher education</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/economics" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">economics</a></div></div></div>Sun, 06 Jul 2014 00:48:15 +0000visualrealia836 at http://www.visualrealia.comhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/cost-pennsylvania-public-colleges#commentsSeasoned Corn Chipshttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/seasoned-corn-chips
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"> <p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201405/_5266044-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p>While making homemade tortilla strips for salads, I stumbled upon a method that reminded me more of a commercial corn chip than either fried or baked tortilla chips. By combining both processes and adding seasonings, one can end up with a nice snacking chip that would hold up to a dip or be flavorful enough to skip the dip completely. While the steps start with frying, only three tablespoons of olive oil is used in the pan.</p>
<p>While any oven-proof pan can work, this process seems made for a cast iron pan, which also cleans easily afterward.</p>
<p>This recipe lends itself to experimentation with various seasonings.</p>
<p>See below for a link to a printable recipe download.</p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201405/_5266033-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p> </p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201405/_5266041-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p> </p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="560" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201405/_5266042-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p>To download and print a pdf version of the recipe, <a href="http://visualrealia.drupalgardens.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201405/CornChipsAndySmith.pdf">click here</a>.</p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="560" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201405/_5266052-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/food" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">food</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/tortilla" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">tortilla</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/snacks" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">snacks</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/fried" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">fried</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/chips" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">chips</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/corn" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">corn</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/recipe" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">recipe</a></div></div></div>Sun, 01 Jun 2014 02:25:35 +0000visualrealia831 at http://www.visualrealia.comhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/seasoned-corn-chips#commentsYork County Camera Club Presentationhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/york-county-camera-club-presentation
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"> <p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="525" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201405/Open.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p>
<p>I've had the pleasure of judging photography competitions for the <a href="http://www.meetup.com/York-County-Camera-Club/">York County Camera Club</a> (Pennsylvania) a few times, and it was obvious that the group was very friendly, active and enthusiastic about sharing their interests and skills. Anyone in southern Pennsylvania or northern Maryland with an interest in exploring photograph and/or increasing their skills should visit the group during one of their two meetings each month. While there is a very reasonable $20.00 fee to join, they graciously offer visitors a chance to attend two meetings before joining.</p>
<p>If you're available on the evening of Tuesday, May 27th, why not attend a <a href="http://www.meetup.com/York-County-Camera-Club/events/179060992/">presentation</a> I'll be leading on an overview of using layers and blending modes to add texture to photographs, adding finishing touches to black and white photographs, and thoughts regarding staging a successful photowalk. The evening starts at 7:00 PM at the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/1775+Powder+Mill+Rd/@39.9230595,-76.6997253,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x89c889175cb2519b:0x1dec2d6da8d02d5?hl=en">Senior Commons, located at 1775 Powder Mill Rd, York, PA</a>.</p>
<p>Questions? Feel free to <a href="mailto:ostman4200@comcast.net?subject=Presentation%20Question">contact me</a> or check out the following links:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.meetup.com/York-County-Camera-Club/">York County Camera Club's Meetup Page</a><br /><a href="http://www.meetup.com/York-County-Camera-Club/events/179060992/">May 27th's Presentation Page</a><br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/1775+Powder+Mill+Rd/@39.9230595,-76.6997253,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x89c889175cb2519b:0x1dec2d6da8d02d5?hl=en">Google Maps Location Page</a><br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/YorkCountyCameraClub/">YCCC's Facebook Page</a></p>
<p>Hope to see you there!</p>
<p><div class="field field-name-file field-type-file field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div class="styles file-styles original styles-field-file styles-style-original styles-container-image"><div class="media-thumbnail-frame"><img alt="" class="media-image" height="560" width="700" typeof="foaf:Image" src="http://www.visualrealia.com/sites/g/files/g389126/f/201405/_5035796-Edit.jpg" /></div></div></div></div></div></p> </div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tags field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Tags:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/photography" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">photography</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/photowalk" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">photowalk</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/photoshop" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Photoshop</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/technique" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">technique</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/tags/education" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">education</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/tags/york-county" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">York County</a></div></div></div>Sat, 03 May 2014 21:48:53 +0000visualrealia826 at http://www.visualrealia.comhttp://www.visualrealia.com/content/york-county-camera-club-presentation#comments